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Can You Plant Trees In Winter?

Tallow Tree Services Pty Ltd • July 16, 2021

The autumn and winter months tend to be some of the best times of the year to plant trees, but you can’t plant whatever tree you like. What you plant will depend on several factors, such as the climate and whether any severe weather is expected. Generally speaking, your shrubs need around six weeks to establish their roots in winter before frost and colder temperatures arrive.


We've put together a guide to tell you about the different types of trees that should be planted over the winter months as well as some winter tree care tips for you.

Trees to plant through winter 

Usually, you should plant a tree when it is dormant. As such, deciduous trees will cope well if you plant them at the end of autumn, whereas evergreen trees will not. Evergreens hold on to their foliage, so it will be hard for them to establish roots with a limited water supply. Whatever tree you opt for, make sure you don’t plant it when it’s either too hot or too cold outside. Three great deciduous trees to consider include: 

Hawthorn (Crataegus Monogyna)

Hawthorns are prickly and will bear white flowers in the springtime. Because they will grow in just about all soil types, they’re perfect for coastal regions in Northern NSW. 

Claret Ash

Being one of the easiest trees to plant, as well as one of the prettiest to look at, claret ash is one of Sydney’s favourite deciduous street trees, so you can’t go wrong with this one.

Chinese Tallow

This is a medium-sized tree that is a family favourite thanks to its gorgeous shades of orange and burgundy. Its drought-tolerant nature and the fact it will grow in just about all soil types make it perfect for your garden. Did you know that it self-seeds too? So you don’t have to worry about the Chinese tallow tree being invasive either.

Winter Tree Care Tips 

1. Prune. Prune. Prune. 

As deciduous trees become dormant during wintertime, make sure you prune them. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and cut back any that are still in good condition. 

2. Protect Your Trees From Freezing Temperatures 

As temperatures begin to fall, your young trees won’t be able to survive below 32 degrees. So, we recommend you cover these trees with sheets and burlaps to trap the earth’s warmth. Move your potted plants inside too so they are more protected. 

3. Retain Warmth And Moisture By Mulching 

Around the base of your trunk, cover the soil using a three to five-inch layer of mulch to help retain any natural moisture and warmth from the ground.

4. If There’s No Rain, Water Away

Even though it’s winter, there may not much be rain. If there isn’t, we suggest you continue watering your trees and plants. The younger ones should be watered once every one or two weeks.


Contact our expert and friendly team at Tallow Tree Services by giving us a call on 02 6687 2750 for our wide range of outdoor services. Alternatively, drop us an email for all your planting and gardening needs.

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